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Toledo Man's Warning: Avoiding a Potential Scam

Nov 27, 2024 at 12:36 AM

Dereck Patton, a resident of Toledo, Ohio, has a crucial message for others. His encounter with a potential scam serves as a valuable lesson. On Monday, he received a call that immediately raised red flags. The call began with a man claiming to be his son and stating that he had been in a crash and was facing jail time. However, Patton's actual son is only 12 years old, which clearly indicated something was amiss. The scammer then referred Patton to a public defender named "Adam Wise" to discuss dismissing the "case." Patton was asked to pay $6,000 to get his son's case dismissed. But he was quick to realize that this didn't make sense as he knew how bonds typically work. 13 Action News reached out to the public defender's office through Toledo Municipal Court and discovered that there is no "Adam Wise" working there. The Toledo Police Department has confirmed that this sounds like a scam and is not aware of any similar incidents in the area. TPD advises verifying the identity of the person you are communicating with online or over the phone. If you suspect someone is scamming you, it is advisable to try to record the interaction. As Patton said, "I'm glad I have the opportunity to share this story with you all so that you can spread the word."

Protect Yourself from Toledo's Scam Woes

Scam Call Details

The initial call that Patton received was a classic example of a scam. The scammer managed to create a sense of urgency by claiming that his son was in trouble. This false scenario was designed to manipulate Patton into taking action. The mention of a public defender named "Adam Wise" added an air of legitimacy to the scam. However, Patton's common sense and knowledge of legal procedures helped him see through the deception. He realized that such a large sum of money being demanded for a bond dismissal was highly unlikely.

It is important to be vigilant and not fall for such tactics. Scammers often use emotional appeals to get their victims to act quickly without thinking. Patton's experience shows that we should always be skeptical and verify information before taking any action.

Police Response and Advice

The Toledo Police Department has been made aware of this scam and has issued a warning to the public. They emphasize the importance of verifying the identity of the person on the other end of the call. This can be done by researching the person's information online or through official channels. If you suspect that you are being scammed, it is recommended that you try to record the conversation. This can provide valuable evidence for law enforcement.

Patton's story serves as a reminder that we should not be afraid to share our experiences with others. By spreading the word about scams, we can help protect our communities from falling victim to these criminal activities.

Personal Insights and Takeaways

For Patton, this experience has been a wake-up call. He now realizes the importance of being cautious and vigilant when it comes to phone calls and online interactions. His story also highlights the need for better education and awareness about scams. Many people may not be aware of the various tactics used by scammers or how to protect themselves.

As we navigate the digital age, it is essential that we stay informed and updated on the latest scams. By being proactive and taking steps to protect ourselves, we can avoid falling victim to these criminal schemes. Patton's warning is a valuable one that we should all take to heart.